IBM Aptiva E26 uses K6/233, part II
One area in which the Aptiva falls short of the competition is bundled software. Though others
provide some options for each family member, the IBM unit is geared toward adults. It comes
preloaded with Lotus SmartSuite 97 and a host of utilities.
Still, newcomers have an easy time starting up. Clicking on the "Your Aptiva Adventure Starts Here!"
icon on the desktop will kick-start the installation of IBM's AntiVirus; the machine then reboots, and
you're presented with the company's informational Multimedia Experience video. The Aptiva
Adventure install also loads quick-launch icons for Entertainment (ActiveMovie and Audio Station),
Aptiva on the Net (which will help you set up your machine to get online and download software
updates from the Web), Aptiva Productivity (Lotus programs), and Aptiva Ware (utilities and
instructional information).
The Aptiva also ships with a pair of unexciting speakers; sound quality was acceptable but not
outstanding. IBM also offers a number of monitor options--we looked at a 15-inch model, which
provided the basic display controls but nothing else.
For productivity, the IBM Aptiva E26 is a strong choice, and you won't be stuck down the road if you
want to add hardware.
IBM Aptiva E26
Street price: $999 with 233-MHz AMD K6 CPU, 32MB SDRAM, 3.2GB hard disk, 24X CD-ROM
drive, K56flex modem; IBM 15-inch monitor: $349 (street)
IBM Consumer Division, Research Triangle Park, NC; 800-426-7245, 919-517-2430 |
